Hurt working on the docks or at port? You may be covered under the
Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act.
Longshoremen, harbor workers, crane operators, and cargo handlers
face serious risks on the job. When an injury occurs, you deserve
more than workers’ comp runaround—you need real legal protection.
At Leatherwood Law, we help injured longshore and harbor workers
pursue full compensation under the LHWCA.
The Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (LHWCA)
provides benefits to maritime workers injured on or near navigable
waters, including docks, shipyards, terminals, and loading areas.
These cases fall under federal jurisdiction, and they’re often
more complex than typical state workers’ comp claims.
Based in Houston, we serve injured workers along the Texas
coast—including the Ports of Houston, Galveston, Freeport, and
beyond. We understand the law and how to go toe-to-toe with
employers and their insurance carriers.
If your job supports marine transport or offshore operations and
you’ve been hurt, you may be eligible for LHWCA benefits—even if
your employer says otherwise. We’ll help you fight back.
Longshore & Harbor Injuries We Handle
Crane and loading equipment accidents
Falls from docks, ladders, or gangways
Back, neck, and spine trauma
Amputations and crush injuries
Electrocutions or explosions at port
Forklift and machinery-related injuries
What Compensation Can You Get Under the LHWCA?
If your claim is accepted—or successfully fought for—you may be
entitled to:
Deep Maritime Experience: We understand the nuances
of the LHWCA, Jones Act, and general maritime law.
Local to the Ports: From Houston Ship Channel to
Galveston and Freeport—we represent injured port workers across Texas.
No Win, No Fee: You don’t pay unless we recover
compensation for you.
Thorough Advocacy: We gather witness statements,
safety records, and employer reports to build a strong claim.
What to Do After a Longshore or Harbor Injury
Report your injury – Notify your employer and request
an accident report.
Get medical treatment – Don’t wait. Document all
visits and follow-ups.
Keep documentation – Save incident reports, names
of coworkers, and any photos.
Contact Leatherwood Law – Don’t let the employer’s
insurer delay or deny your claim.
Longshore Injury FAQs
What is the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA)?
The LHWCA is a federal law that provides compensation for maritime workers injured while working on or near the navigable waters of the United States. This includes workers injured at ports, docks, shipyards, and terminals in Houston and along the Texas Gulf Coast. Leatherwood Law helps injured maritime workers in Houston recover lost wages, medical expenses, and rehabilitation benefits under the LHWCA.
Who qualifies for benefits under the LHWCA in Texas?
Workers typically covered under the LHWCA include: Longshoremen, Harbor workers, Shipbuilders and ship repair workers, Dockworkers and crane operators, and Port terminal employees. If you were injured while working in a Houston shipyard or industrial port—not aboard a vessel—you likely qualify. Leatherwood Law can help determine your eligibility.
How is the LHWCA different from the Jones Act?
The Jones Act covers “seamen”—those who spend at least 30% of their time working on a vessel. The LHWCA, on the other hand, protects land-based maritime workers injured on docks, piers, or in shipyards. If your injury happened in the Port of Houston or at a terminal on the Houston Ship Channel, the LHWCA may apply. Leatherwood Law can help navigate which maritime statute best supports your claim.
Can I file both an LHWCA claim and a third-party lawsuit?
While the LHWCA generally bars lawsuits against your direct employer, you may still be able to file a third-party personal injury claim against negligent contractors, equipment manufacturers, or property owners. Our Houston maritime injury team will evaluate your case and pursue all legal avenues to secure the compensation you deserve.
What benefits are available under the LHWCA?
If you were hurt at a Houston shipyard or port, the LHWCA may provide: Temporary or permanent disability benefits, Full coverage for medical care and rehabilitation, Vocational retraining if you cannot return to your previous job, and Death benefits for surviving spouses or dependents. Leatherwood Law ensures injured Texas maritime workers receive the full range of benefits available under federal law.
What should I do after a maritime injury in Houston?
1. Report the injury to your supervisor or employer immediately. 2. Seek prompt medical care from an authorized provider. 3. Contact Leatherwood Law in Houston to protect your rights, file necessary paperwork, and deal with the U.S. Department of Labor. Delays in reporting or documentation can jeopardize your claim—act quickly.
What are the filing deadlines for an LHWCA claim?
Notify your employer within 30 days of the accident. File your official LHWCA claim within one year of the injury—or the last compensation payment, whichever is later. Leatherwood Law ensures all documentation is submitted correctly and on time for Houston-based maritime clients.
Can I still file if I developed an illness over time (like asbestos or chemical exposure)?
Yes. The LHWCA covers occupational diseases such as: Asbestos-related illness, Benzene and solvent exposure, Work-related cancers, Hearing loss, and Respiratory damage. The filing clock begins when you discover your condition is job-related. Leatherwood Law can assist with complex occupational injury claims in Houston.
Does Texas have its own maritime injury system?
No. Maritime injuries in Houston are governed by federal laws such as the LHWCA, the Jones Act, and general maritime law. Leatherwood Law will assess your case to determine the right path to compensation based on federal guidelines and Houston jurisdiction.
Why choose Leatherwood Law for your LHWCA case?
Based in Houston, Attorney Hogan Leatherwood is dedicated to helping maritime and industrial workers injured at ports, shipyards, and docks across Texas. We understand local court systems, maritime regulations, and how to maximize recovery under the LHWCA. Whether your injury happened at the Port of Houston or another Gulf Coast terminal, we’ll fight to get you every dollar you’re owed.
Speak with a Houston Longshore Injury Lawyer Today
Don’t let a denied claim or insurance delay keep you from the
benefits you deserve. Contact Leatherwood Law for a free
consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your rights under
the LHWCA, and fight to secure the compensation you need to
recover and move forward.
